Entamoeba histolytica DNA in Stool (Qualitative, 24-Hour Collection)
This test checks for the presence of Entamoeba histolytica DNA in your stool over a 24-hour period to help diagnose infections caused by this parasite.
["A stool test for a specific parasite infection that helps identify potential intestinal or liver issues."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 90298-1
- Short code
- Entamoeba DNA Stl Seq
- Synonyms
- Entamoeba DNA Stl Seq
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- stool
- Container
- Clean container
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 10
- Ref high
- 40
- Critical range
- — – 500 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- sequencing
- CPT
- 84484
- SNOMED
- 302774002
- Specimen volume
- 5 g
- Stability
- Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Your doctor may order this test to help diagnose a medical condition, check how well a treatment is working, or screen for health problems before symptoms appear. It can also be used to monitor a condition you already have or to look into symptoms you have been experiencing.
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like abdominal pain, diarrhea, blood in stool, or unexplained weight loss. It’s also used in cases of travel to regions with higher parasite risks or if you’ve been exposed to the parasite.
Before the test, your healthcare provider will give you specific instructions to follow. You may need to fast for a certain number of hours, avoid certain medications, or drink extra water. Be sure to tell your provider about any medications, supplements, or allergies you have.
No special preparation is needed. Collect a fresh stool sample in the morning and bring it to your lab within 24 hours. If you’re unsure how to collect it, ask your provider for guidance.
During the test, a trained professional will collect the needed sample or perform the procedure, which usually takes only a few minutes. You may feel minor discomfort, such as a quick pinch, but the process is generally safe and most people can return to normal activities right away.
The test involves analyzing a small sample of your stool for genetic material (DNA) of *Entamoeba histolytica*, a parasite that can cause infections in the intestines or liver.
Your results will show whether your values fall within the normal range for this test. Results within the normal range may suggest no sign of the condition being tested for, while abnormal results can point to a health issue that needs further evaluation. Your provider will explain what your specific results mean for you.
A positive result means the parasite’s DNA was found, suggesting an active infection. A negative result means no DNA was detected, but further testing or follow-up may still be needed depending on your symptoms.
Reference range
Adult: 10-40 U/LN/A
No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance
Short name
Entamoeba stool test
Frequently asked questions
This test helps confirm a diagnosis of *Entamoeba histolytytica* infection, which can lead to amoebic dysentery (severe diarrhea with blood) or liver abscesses. Early detection is important to prevent complications.
A positive result strongly suggests an active *Entamoeba histolytica* infection. Your provider may recommend treatment with antiparasitic medications and further evaluation to address symptoms or complications.
No, this test requires a lab sample collected within 24 hours. Follow your provider’s instructions for proper stool collection to ensure accurate results.
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy